Thingvellir National Park

We start the day with a drive from Reykjavík to Þingvellir (about 1 hour). Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to Iceland's geological and historical significance. Situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, the park showcases a dramatic landscape shaped by the continental drift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This extraordinary site not only allows visitors to witness the visible rift between the plates but also holds deep historical importance. Þingvellir hosted the world's first parliament, the Alþingi, in 930 AD, making it an ancient symbol of democracy. The park's diverse terrain includes the picturesque Öxarárfoss waterfall and the crystal-clear waters of Silfra fissure. Exploring Þingvellir is a journey through both geological wonders and Iceland's rich heritage, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Geysir

The Geysir geothermal area in Haukadalur valley is about 1 hour drive east from Thingvellir through the Rift Valley from the North American Plate to the Eurasian Plate going along the mountain range to the north bordering the highlands. This hot spring area is one of the few places where you can find those natural steaming pools of geothermal water in Iceland, and the only one where an active geyser Strokkur erupts every 4-5 minutes. The Great Geysir which gave its name to the geysers of the world has gone quiet in recent years but every now and then in the aftermath of earthquakes it erupts high towards the heavens.